Arugula, with its distinctive peppery flavor, is a remarkably versatile ingredient that extends far beyond the typical salad bowl. Its assertive bite complements rich proteins like beef carpaccio and salmon, acting almost as an herb, and stands up beautifully in cooked dishes. From wilted warm salads to hearty soups, arugula elevates flavors and adds complexity. This article highlights 16 recipes showcasing the green’s adaptability—spanning simple sides to full-fledged mains—proving it’s a kitchen staple worth exploring.
Beyond the Bowl: Arugula in Unexpected Dishes
Arugula isn’t just about crisp freshness; it thrives in cooked preparations too. The following recipes demonstrate how its flavor holds up under heat and integrates into unexpected applications.
Hearty & Savory: Potato Salad, Lentils, and Pies
- Fingerling Potato Salad with Chorizo & Arugula: Smoked chorizo and creamy fingerling potatoes are balanced by the peppery bite of arugula in this substantial one-bowl meal.
- French Lentils with Sausage & Wilted Arugula: A hearty, flavorful dish where cloves, mustard, and arugula cut through the richness of sausage and lentils.
- Spanakopita with Arugula: This Greek savory pie gets a flavor boost by incorporating arugula alongside spinach, adding a welcome edge.
Pasta & Main Courses: From Tarts to Soups
- Arugula, Salmon & Leek Tart: Arugula appears both cooked into the filling and fresh on top, providing a dual layer of flavor.
- Gemelli with Arugula, Ricotta & Lemon: Silky pasta coated in a creamy sauce with bright arugula and zesty lemon.
- Hot or Cold Creamy Lettuce Soup: A surprising yet delicious application—arugula simmered into a creamy, comforting soup, served hot or cold.
Fresh & Vibrant: Salads and Quick Bites
Arugula’s peppery freshness shines in raw preparations, cutting through richness and adding depth.
- Spring Vegetable & Arugula Salad with Labne: A vibrant mix of seasonal produce, creamy labne, and a generous helping of peppery arugula.
- Arugula, Sweet Potato & Walnut Salad with Dashi Vinaigrette: A unique salad that breaks the vinaigrette rule by using soy sauce and dashi for an umami-rich dressing.
- Arugula, Fennel & Orange Salad: A simple yet elegant autumn salad balancing spicy arugula with sweet oranges and licorice-like fennel.
Elevated Classics: Beef Carpaccio, Stuffed Shells, and Niçoise
- Easy Beef Carpaccio with Arugula: Thinly sliced beef paired with peppery arugula, tomatoes, and a lemon-Dijon sauce.
- Classic Italian-American Stuffed Shells with Arugula: Ricotta and spinach filling gets an upgrade with the addition of arugula for a more flavorful bite.
- The Un-Composed Niçoise Salad: A fully dressed, tossed Niçoise salad where arugula holds its own against olives, capers, and anchovies.
Unexpected Twists: Vegan Dishes and Crostini
- Creamy Vegan Saag Paneer with Arugula: A vegan take on a classic Indian dish, using tofu and a mix of spinach and arugula for an extra flavor punch.
- Sourdough Toasts with Tomato, Pesto & Burrata: Crostini topped with strained tomatoes, creamy burrata, and a basil-arugula pesto.
- Salmon Bean Salad: Flaked salmon, cranberry beans, and peppery arugula combine for a simple, satisfying salad.
- Winter Greens Salad with Flax Seeds, Beets & Radishes: A seasonal salad that proves arugula’s availability even in colder months.
Arugula’s versatility is undeniable: whether used to brighten a summer salad or add depth to a winter soup, this peppery green elevates dishes with its unique flavor profile. Its adaptability makes it a valuable addition to any kitchen, proving it’s much more than just another salad ingredient.
